Can low water pressure from the city cause a water heater not to work?

Question

Can low water pressure from the city cause a water heater not to work? Problem started Just since last night when the city starting having issues with the water pressure in the cold weather.

Answer 1

Hi Philip P.,

Check out a diagram of a water heater. You will see that the tank is directly filled by the cold water (city water) supply. Therefore, unless you have really wierd plumbing, you cannot drain the tank by use, AND it will continue to heat water to its setpoint. If you heated the tank empty, you might burn it out. But as long as you have some cold water pressure, you should be OK. Don't try to shower, though (the warm water might cool off before it gets to you!).

1. Mr. d.